Ee-Tan has been sponsoring Juen* from Yongsheng, China, since he was four years old. In March 2006, she visited him together with 19 other sponsors and three World Vision staff.

“The highlight of the trip was meeting Juen. We recognised each other immediately!

After sponsoring him for almost six years, I had always wondered whether we would ever meet. I couldn’t find words to describe my feelings. He is such a sweet and well-behaved child. I was amazed at how we would open the wrappers of my presents carefully and after admiring the gift, replace them properly.

Juen took me around his school, showing me his classroom and dormitory. From our short meeting, I had a better understanding of his life.

A Child’s Promise
When it was time for me to leave, he asked “Ah Yi, (auntie) could you not stay a while longer?” I told him I would love to but I couldn’t as we traveled in a group. He then walked with me all the way down the hill, to where our Jeeps were parked.

Just before I left, he said to me in a soft and firm voice: “Ah Yi, don’t worry. I promise that I will be hardworking and do well in my studies.”

I was so touched. Tears welded up in my eyes and I had to look away. He is such a good boy and I am so fortunate to have sponsored him all these years.“

*Note: In line with World Vision’s Child Protection Policy, the child’s name has been changed to protect his identity.